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SAINT JOHN - For the sixth consecutive year, New Brunswick members of the Catholic Network for Women's Equality will be conducting what they're calling a "silent, but respectful" vigil in front of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Waterloo Street before today's mass of Holy Chrism.

The mass is when all priests of the diocese renew their priestly ministry.

What the CNWE calls the Purple Stole Vigil will take place between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Those taking part in the vigil wear purple, the colour of reconciliation, and stand with family, friends and supporters of their concerns. Among them, the network said in a news release, are "that the Catholic church recognize the equality and personhood of all women and men; that women be included in all ministries of the church, including sacramental ministries; that women be included in leadership and decision-making roles in the church; and that women and men support one another in their growth and development as people of God."

CNWE has been holding such vigils nationally for 27 years.

By holding such vigils, it hopes "to stress the need for (a) change of heart on the part of the institutional church for its oppressed women," the news release stated.

"We wear a stole as a symbol of our dignity as baptized Christians called to ministry. "¦ We pray that in (Christ) we may begin to walk together in the way of justice."

About 40 people took part in last year's vigil.